There's no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how to decorate a large wall. However, there are plenty of pro design methods to help you get the job done right.
Gallery walls are tried-and-true options for large wall decor. Mix lighthearted photos and oil paintings in varying frames to achieve an eclectic look, or stick with a consistent style for an elegant effect.
Paint it a bold color
One of the easiest ways to make a large wall stand out is by painting it a bold color. However, instead of choosing a single color for the entire room, consider creating a more subtle look by using a two-color ombre effect. Paint your base color on the bottom of your wall, then add a lighter shade of your choosing to the middle of the wall and a darker shade on the top section to create a soft transition between colors.
Alternatively, try stenciling your walls for an easy, customizable accent. Orangme offer a more affordable option than wallpaper and are available in a wide variety of designs, so you'll have no trouble finding a stencil to match your space. A fabric tapestry can also be hung on a large wall, adding texture and pattern while being easier to hang and safer than hanging heavy artwork.
Wood paneling or shiplap is another classic choice for decorating a large wall. This rustic material can work well in older homes but can also be used to add a touch of modern or industrial flair to newer rooms. This material can be paired with wood trim and molding to create a cohesive look or with brick or stone tile veneer for a more rustic yet refined feel.
Another creative way to decorate a large wall is by using millwork. Adding a picture frame molding around windows or doors can help to break up a large wall, and it can be painted in the same color as your accent wall to create a refined and expensive look. A dark color also works well for molding, allowing it to read as a feature rather than a background element.
If you're feeling adventurous, use a patterned roller to create a more textural look on your wall. These rolls consist of a rubber with raised patterns molded into them that create a subtle and unique effect. They're usually best for a small section of a wall so they don't overwhelm the whole surface but can be applied to larger sections to add more visual interest.
Add a console table
A console table adds both height and functionality to a wall in your home. Use one in the entryway to create a space for hanging keys and sunglasses or place it in your living room to display framed artwork or family photos. A console table can also be a great place to store accessories like vases, decorative baskets, and even a stack of books. If your console has cabinets with doors or drawers, it can be a perfect place to keep things like mudroom essentials, pet supplies, and extra table linens.
Adding a table lamp or two is an easy way to instantly transform a console. You can also layer accessories on the table to add more depth and visual interest. Large vases or flowers are a nice touch, as are tall picture frames and stacked books. When using a lot of accessories or decor pieces on your console, be sure to group them in pairs or threes to keep the surface from feeling too cluttered.
If you’re going with a symmetrical design, you can add some interest by including a candlestick or two or a vase with a unique shape. This adds a pop of color and an interesting texture that will catch the eye of anyone who walks by your console.
A patterned sofa or chair is another way to bring in a pop of color. Here a blue couch is paired with a matching table and decorative vase to add more interest to the console. If you’re hesitant to introduce a bold color on your walls, a console table is the perfect place to try it out!
If you’re unsure how to decorate a large wall, it’s important to understand the dimensions of your space. This will help you avoid choosing a design idea that doesn’t work well with your home or aesthetic, which can lead to costly redos down the road. Taking the time to pinpoint your style before transforming your large empty wall will help you narrow down your options, making it much easier and less stressful to choose the best look for your home!
Hang oversized mirrors
Mirrors are a great option for decorating a large wall because they can add depth and reflect light. In addition, they’re fairly easy to hang. You can go with a single, oversized mirror for an elegant look or a collection of smaller mirrors for a more eclectic look.
When hanging a mirror, choose a spot on the wall that is free of clutter and large enough to accommodate the frame. You should also consider how high you want to hang the mirror—ideally, it’s best to avoid hanging it higher than eye level. In general, you’ll want to mount a mirror high enough that people can see themselves in it when they walk by.
You can mount a mirror using wood paneling or planks to add a touch of texture to the room. Whether you use reclaimed wood for a rustic feel or sleek panels for a modern look, this is a beautiful way to add a focal point to a large blank space.
A metal cleat is another popular method for mounting large-scale mirrors. This type of fastener provides a more secure hold than a traditional wire and screw and is suitable for heavy or large pieces. Before drilling into the wall, it’s important to make sure the cleat is securely anchored to a stud. To do this, find a spot on the wall and mark it with a pencil. Then, stretch a tape measure between the marks to locate the center of each stud. When you’re done, mount two fastener screws on the studs based on the measurements you made earlier.
Once the screws are in place, you can hang your mirror by securing its stainless steel hanging wire to the tops of the two fastener screws. After the wire is in place, carefully lift your mirror into place and use a level to make sure it’s straight. Finally, use a rag and some wood glue to clean up any dings or scratches on the walls, if needed.
Another easy way to decorate a large wall is with a gallery of art. By grouping a series of paintings or sculptures together, you can add a lot of visual interest to a wall and create a focal point for the space. You can also try adding other art elements to the wall, such as a fabric hanging, tapestry, or macrame.
Add art
Using art to fill a large wall adds a visual break and creates a focal point for the space. The key is to find the right piece that speaks to your personal style. This ensures your final product is cohesive and reflects your aesthetic, rather than feeling like a mismatched collection. Once you pinpoint your style, it’s easier to filter out looks that do not fit and lessens costly redos down the road.
Height and spacing are crucial factors to take into account when choosing framed art for your large wall. Hanging items too closely together, for instance, can make the collection appear crowded and haphazard. Instead, group your artwork together, allowing each piece to be about 3–6 inches apart. This allows for the collection to breathe and prevents each piece from overwhelming the space. Also, make sure the top of your art is centered at eye level when hung.
If you prefer a more tactile decor option, a beautiful tapestry can make the perfect addition to your large wall. Tapestries come in a variety of colors, styles, and sizes and are available at a range of price points. Whether you choose to DIY your wall hanging or hire a local artist, the result is an easy and affordable way to add a personalized touch to your home.
Another fun and unique art option for large walls is a mural. Whether you choose to hire a local artist or use removable mural wallpaper, this is an inexpensive and easy way to add personality to your home. You can choose from a variety of styles, from jungle themes to abstract landscapes and everything in between.
If a large framed art piece isn’t your thing, try a gallery wall of photos or art prints. Adding a mix of frame sizes is a wonderful way to add interest and avoid a gallery wall that feels overly calculated. Alternatively, you can also hang a collection of framed antlers or other natural elements to add character and personality to your home.
